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What to choose – BWP (Marine/Boiling waterproof) grade plywood or MR (Moisture Resistant) grade plywood?

December 28, 2023

Introduction

There are a lot of different kinds of plywood and certifications, which might make it hard to understand. BWP and MR grade plywood are two of the most common varieties because they are used so often. At first glance, they may seem the same, yet they are significantly different in terms of their key features and ideal uses. You need to choose the proper one from these two to make sure your furniture and home decor last a long time.

Table of Contents

BWP Grade Plywood for Wet Areas

Phenolic Resin Bonding: The adhesive that is used for joining phenolic resin makes the BWP grade board waterproof. The veneers are held together by a high-quality synthetic phenolic resin. This adhesive won’t come off in water and can’t be broken. This epoxy is what protects the plywood from coming apart or changing shape when it gets wet, even in hot water.

ISI:710 Certification: You can be sure that the plywood is legitimate if the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) gives it the IS:710 grade. The plywood has passed severe testing for water resistance, such as being soaked in boiling water for a set period of time to make sure it doesn’t come apart. This mark is always there to show that the thing you are buying is legitimate.

Perfect for High-Moisture Zones: BWP grade plywood is best for sections of the house that get a lot of dampness. These are objects that can get wet, steamy or humid, like kitchen cupboards, bathroom sinks, laundry room units and more. Your furniture will stay straight and survive for years because it doesn’t soak up water as effectively as other materials.

Suitable for Outdoor and Marine Use: Because BWP type plywood is so sturdy, it can be used outside and on boats as well. It can be used for outdoor furniture, wall coverings and even maritime usage like building boats, which have to be in water and bad weather all the time.

Upgrade your wet area furniture with BWP grade plywood for long-lasting strength and water resistance.

MR Grade Plywood for Dry Interiors

Urea Formaldehyde Resin: This is the adhesive that holds MR grade plywood together. This adhesive is good at keeping water and moisture out, but it’s not waterproof. This means you can use it inside, in spaces like bedrooms and living rooms, where the plywood won’t become wet right away.
ISI:303 Certification: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certifies that a brand of MR grade plywood satisfies the IS:303 standard. This certification means that the plywood is of good quality and functions well. In addition, it makes sure that it can be used inside and can handle some moisture. Check for this approval when you buy something to make sure it is strong and well-made.
Perfect for General Furniture: MR grade plywood is great for making furniture that will be utilised inside in dry spaces. This set has beds, wardrobes, desks, work tables, and TV stands. Because it has a flat surface and can retain screws well, it works with a lot of different kinds of wood and laminates. You can build a lot of different sorts of furniture with it, from simple shelves to more sophisticated and one-of-a-kind pieces, because it is both durable and flexible.
Cost-Effective Solution: Using MR grade plywood instead of waterproof variants of the same material is the most cost-effective option. You should spend your money on this. This makes it an affordable solution for big indoor projects, so you can make beautiful, long-lasting furniture without spending a lot of money on waterproof materials. It always works and is an excellent value for the money.

Build stunning dry interior furniture with MR grade plywood that’s cost-effective yet durable.

Choosing Between BWP and MR Grade Plywood

Environmental Factors: The most crucial item to think about is how much moisture is in the area where the plywood will be used. In regions with a lot of moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and washing rooms, you should only use BWP grade plywood. Because it can take average levels of humidity without any difficulties, MR grade plywood is a wonderful choice for bedrooms, living rooms, workplaces, and any other dry indoor space.
Budget Considerations: Remember that MR grade plywood costs less than BWP plywood. If you need to stay on a limited budget and don’t need to worry about moisture, the MR grade is the finest solution. But it’s extremely important to use good materials in regions that will get wet. When this happens, it’s worth it to pay more for BWP type plywood because it will last longer and keep water from getting in.
Use and Function: Consider what the furniture is meant to do. Bathroom vanities and kitchen sink cabinets are examples of structural sections that need to be able to endure large loads and possible moisture. They need to be BWP grade. MR grade plywood is more than strong enough to keep water from getting into a bedroom closet, a bookshelf or a study table.
Longevity and Peace of Mind: Both types of plywood are strong, but BWP grade plywood is better at protecting you and giving you peace of mind in severe situations. It is stronger than MR grade and can handle conditions that would shatter it. This makes it a better choice for portions of the house that are more likely to be damaged. You can relax knowing that your kitchen or bathroom furnishings won’t get damaged by water, which makes the purchase well worth it.

Benefits of BWP and MR Grade Plywood in Furniture

Superior Strength and Durability: Both kinds of plywood are noted for being strong. The multilayer construction makes the whole sheet sturdy enough to hold screws and not break when impacted. The furniture will last since it is made of durable plywood.
Versatility in Design: BWP and MR grade plywood are both suitable for a number of various finishes because they are smooth and the same thickness all around. You can give them any style you choose, from a plain modern look to a classic wood finish, by painting, laminating, or veneering them.
Cost-Effectiveness: Using MR grade plywood in dry parts and BWP grade plywood in wet regions together in a wise approach can make a comprehensive house interior renovation less expensive. This helps you get the most out of your money by putting more into places that are risky and less into those that are safe.

Conclusion

There is no clear winner between BWP grade plywood and MR grade plywood. The best decision depends on the project. BWP grade plywood is the finest choice for wet areas since it lasts longer and is more resistant to water. This is vital for a kitchen or bathroom that lasts. On the other hand, MR grade plywood is a great alternative for all dry indoor spaces because it is affordable and beneficial.

Choose WigwamPly for BWP grade plywood and MR grade plywood that make furniture last for decades!

FAQ’s

What is the main difference between BWP and MR grade plywood?
BWP grade plywood is waterproof and ideal for wet areas, while MR grade plywood is moisture-resistant and suited for dry indoor spaces.
Can MR grade plywood be used in kitchens or bathrooms?
No, MR grade plywood is not waterproof. For moisture-heavy areas like kitchens or bathrooms, BWP grade plywood is recommended.
Why is BWP grade plywood more expensive than MR grade plywood?
BWP uses phenolic resin bonding and undergoes stringent ISI:710 testing, making it more durable and water-resistant, which increases its cost.
Which plywood is better for outdoor furniture?
BWP grade plywood is best for outdoor use as it withstands rain, humidity, and changing weather without warping.
How can I choose the right plywood for my project?
Consider moisture levels, your budget, and furniture function. Use BWP for wet areas and MR for dry interiors to balance durability and cost.